Ajay Raj Sharma: Man Who Changed The Way of Policing In Delhi

Ajay Raj Sharma, a IPS(Retd) belonging to 1966 batch  and the first Delhi Police Commissioner from a non-UT cadre, has passed away. His appointment by the then Union Home Minister Lal Krishana Advani in July 1999 was a significant departure from tradition. Sharma's leadership was marked by a strategic approach that significantly shaped the capital force's operational capabilities when Delhi was reeling under Law and Order problems.

Sharma made policing more assertive and enhanced the force's morale and firepower. This was a subtle departure from earlier approaches where Delhi Police Commissioners advocated for measured and restrained approaches, giving more weight to professionalism. However, this approach faced difficulties when Foce was facing Law and order issues from almost all ends, a  top source said.

He originally belonged to the UP cadre, and even there, he played a major role in forming the Special Task Force of the UP Police. Similarly, after his stint as Delhi Police Commissioner, he was moved to BSF as its DG from 2002-2004, where he also played a major role in operationalizing and strategizing the force at the crucial border outposts. "Sharma was a fearless and hawkish personality, with a touch of joviality that endeared him to many" a top source added. His legacy and contributions will continue to inspire many in service.